Dated: 28/ February/2024
Editor
Dhaka Opinion Magazine
Dhaka
The menace of plastic pollution demands immediate action and global attention. The relentless influx of plastic waste into oceans has reached a critical juncture. Yearly, millions of tons of plastic debris find their way into the world’s oceans, persisting for centuries and wreaking havoc on marine ecosystems and wildlife. According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (2021), annually, over 400 million tons of plastic are produced globally for diverse applications, with a staggering 14 million tons ending up in the ocean, constituting 80 percent of the marine debris. Plastic pollution in oceans originates from single-use plastics, improper waste disposal, industrial discharges, fishing gear, stormwater runoff, wastewater effluents, shipping activities, plastic microbeads, synthetic clothing fibers, and more.
The detrimental impact of plastic pollution on oceanic life is extensive and devastating, posing a grave threat to the well-being and survival of numerous marine species and marine ecosystems. The proliferation of microplastics — resulting from the breakdown of larger plastic items — has permeated marine environments globally, posing a pervasive threat to the entire aquatic food chain. Oceanic plastic pollution results in marine species ingesting or becoming entangled in plastic, leading to severe injuries and fatalities. Moreover, the repercussions of plastic pollution in oceans extend far beyond marine life, affecting human health and economies alike. Marine plastic pollution that jeopardizes human health affects coastal tourism and exacerbates climate change. Additionally, oceanic plastic pollution leads to declining fish stocks and economic burdens on local governments tasked with cleanup efforts.
Plastic pollution in oceans is due to several causes. Improper disposal and a lack of effective waste management systems play crucial roles in oceanic plastic pollution. People rely heavily on single-use plastics, like bags and bottles, which end up in water bodies due to littering, inadequate recycling, and illegal dumping. Despite growing awareness, preventing this pollution remains challenging due to inconsistent regulations, economic factors favoring plastic production, and limited alternatives in certain industries. The global nature of ocean currents complicates efforts, as plastic waste can travel vast distances, making it difficult to tackle the problem comprehensively. Additionally, a lack of collaboration among governments, industries, and communities puts challenges to implementing effective strategies and reducing plastic pollution in oceans.
It is imperative to address this pressing environmental crisis to safeguard maritime ecosystems. Collective action is imperative to end oceanic plastic pollution and ensure the health and vitality of oceans for generations to come. By advocating for policy reforms, supporting plastic-free initiatives, and actively participating in conservation endeavors, individuals can contribute significantly to the preservation of oceans and marine biodiversity. A comprehensive strategy encompassing the reduction of plastic production and consumption, the enhancement of waste management infrastructure, and the promotion of sustainable alternatives to single-use plastics is vital. International collaboration is paramount to enact stronger regulations, hold polluters accountable, and spur innovation in plastic recycling and cleanup technologies.
Sincerely
Md Maruf Hasan
PhD Candidate
International Islamic University Malaysia
Kuala Lumpur
Email:marufenglish021@gmail.com
DISCLAIMER: The views/opinions expressed are those of the LTE authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Magazine or its editorial team.
